FCSS hosting Seniors’ Expo in Taber

By Heather Cameron
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Taber will be holding a Seniors’ Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Taber Community Centre Auditorium.

“The purpose is to connect seniors from rural southern Alberta with service providers and organizations they might not otherwise see face-to-face,” Kaitlynn Weaver, Outreach Services Supervisor for FCSS Taber, said. “The facility is wheelchair accessible and FCSS staff will be available to assist individuals with mobility aids. We are so excited to bring this Expo to the seniors in Taber and area.”

FCSS Senior Services coordinator Renee White says that this is the first year for the Seniors’ Expo and that in the past, FCSS held a Seniors’ Conference in the fall instead.

“This year, we are trying something a little different to reach not only the seniors that typically would attend the conference, but also those who might have otherwise been unable or unavailable during the day,” White said. “There will be good information available to anyone who is an older adult and for those who might not be a senior, but are looking for resources for someone they know. We really feel the information is important and it is such a good way for seniors to connect with information, and with friends they might not have seen for a while.” 

The Expo, White says, is free, focused on seniors, specifically rural seniors from the MD of Taber, the County of Warner, and the Lethbridge County and they are expecting at least 100 seniors, but anyone is welcome to attend. FCSS, Weaver says, considers seniors to be 55+. However, some organizations – like the provincial and federal government – consider seniors to be 65+.  

White says that there will be information booths set up by service providers, organizations, and businesses that serve seniors. Individuals will have the opportunity to browse, ask questions, and chat with the exhibitors. There will be a games corner set up for relaxing and having some fun, wellness sessions for people to attend, door prizes, and delicious snacks, White says.

“There will be a series of wellness sessions available, including the following: Circle of Rhythm: Therapeutic Drumming for Adults; Essentrics Mini-Class: A Gentle Exercise class that Promotes and Movement; and ‘Can Opener for you Mind’: A Presentation on Mindfulness,” White said. “These sessions are a great way to take a load off, learn about yourself and others, and stretch your body and mind.”   

For more information about the Seniors’ Expo, visit: https://www.facebook.com/mdoftaberfcss/ or https://fcss.ca/event/seniors-expo/ or contact Renee White at (587) 370-8518 or renee.white@fcss.ca. 

  “The Seniors’ Expo is a great way to talk to the providers that support seniors in a non-stressful environment,” White said. “It’s a chance to find information about relevant topics, prepare for the future, and assist with the here and now. Bring your friends and make and afternoon of it. We will see you there!”